CALAMBA CITY, Laguna (PIA) — The Department of Agriculture (DA) in Calabarzon expects a boost in agriculture and fisheries sector following the approval of three farm-to-market road (FMR) projects in Quezon and a potable water system in Laguna.
In a statement, the DA Calabarzon said that the new projects, under the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) Scale-Up, amounting P1.21 billion will benefit over 33,700 individuals with enhanced agri-food supply.
“We are very happy to support and approve these subprojects because the benefits go beyond agriculture and fisheries. These will help people improve their communities by providing access to basic resources, services, and opportunities,” said DA Calabarzon Regional Executive Director Fidel Libao.
Among the approved FMRs in Quezon are the Sto. Niño-Huyon-Uyon FMR in San Francisco (10.58 km), the San Roque-San Antonio Magcopa-San Pablo Suha-Doongan Ilaya FMR with two bridge components in Catanauan (12.46 km), and the concreting of the Bagupaye to San Pedro FMR with a bridge in Mulanay (15.33 km). Project construction is expected to begin this year.
Libao emphasized that these improvements will not only enhance the transportation of goods but also support local residents.
“This will pave the way for strengthening agricultural production and creating opportunities that will support farmers’ livelihoods,” he added.
Meanwhile, the rehabilitation and improvement of the Level II potable water system in Majayjay, Laguna, will address water supply issues in eight barangays. According to DA, this project will provide a safe and reliable water source to prevent waterborne diseases such as diarrhea and gastritis.
With the approval of these projects, Libao hopes to see further development in the agriculture and fisheries sector and a reduction in poverty incidence in these communities.
Local government units extended their gratitude to the DA-PRDP Regional Project Advisory Board and the DA-PRDP Regional Project Coordination Office in Calabarzon for their support. They assured the public of their commitment to the successful implementation of these projects for the benefit of residents and farmers.
The PRDP Scale-Up is DA’s flagship program in partnership with the World Bank designed to address the gaps in the commodity value chains by improving the efficiency of the food supply chain towards greater connectivity, mobility, accessibility, availability, and affordability of food in the market. (FSC, PIA 4A/DA 4A)
